Grandstand named in honour of Lismore cricket legend

Lismore’s newly refurbished Oakes Oval has named its grandstand after local cricket legend Lyn Larsen AM, in honour of her extraordinary contributions to the sport and deep connection to the Lismore region.

Lismore City Council advise “the tribute is an acknowledgment of Lyn’s remarkable professional sporting career as well as the inspiration her legacy provides future generations.”

Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg said Lyn’s sporting achievements deserve recognition and shared “Lyn Larsen embodies everything we admire in a sporting icon—passion, perseverance and excellence.

“Naming this grandstand in her honour is a fitting tribute to her legacy and a reminder of what our local talent can achieve.

“This grandstand will inspire countless young cricketers and sports enthusiasts, reminding them of the heights that can be reached with dedication and passion.”

Born and raised in Tuntable Creek, Larsen’s journey to cricketing greatness began on front-yard cricket pitches prepared by her father, where she developed the skills that would launch her to the pinnacle of international cricket.

From playing local matches to leading the Australian women’s cricket team at just 22, Lyn’s career featured 15 Test matches and 49 one-day internationals, plus captained Australia to a historic World Cup victory in 1988.

Larsen said she is honoured to be recognised in such a way and added “I am so privileged and humbled, and this is such an honour.

“To have a grandstand bearing your name is one of the greatest tributes a sportsperson can be paid.

“Back in 1988, we couldn’t fathom that women’s cricket would grow to how it is today. The pathways available for women are now set with local talent performing well, such as Grace Parsons, who did so well in the recent Women's Big Bash League.”

Beyond her playing career, Larsen contributed to the sport as a regional coach, manager and selector, earning numerous accolades, including being inducted into the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame and the Sport Australia Hall of Fame.

In 2020, she was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia for her outstanding service to cricket. She is also one of the ambassadors to Lismore’s Masters Games.

Image. Lyn Larsen (centre holding flowers), Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg (kneeling front centre) and family, friends and former fellow cricketers celebrated the unveiling of the Lyn Larsen Grandstand. Credit Lismore City Council.